Today’s news in brief – 27/09/24

Chick-fil-A will be expanding in the UK, targeting sites in London, Leeds, Liverpool and Belfast. The brand has stated that it is “in the process of selecting operators” for the four cities and hopes to open a total of five restaurants in the next two years. The plan comes just four years after it originally tried to get a foothold in the UK market.

Greene King has appointed Jonathan Fearn as its next CFO, after Richard Smothers revealed he will be retiring in April 2025. Fearn will join from Abcam in January 2025 and will undergo an “extensive” induction. Following his retirement, Smothers will continue to support the business in an advisory role, as announced earlier this month.

Polygon Public House will open a second gastropub, The Ox, in October following on from the Rose and Crown in Clapham. The family-owned pub company acquired the site, previously known as The Saxon, from the East London Pub Co and is currently undergoing an extensive refurbishment. 

Just Perfect Catering has partnered with Castell Howell Foods to develop a Sustainable Supplier Network. Through the new network the group will identify and promote Welsh suppliers with strong sustainability credentials, including carbon reduction plans and biodiversity initiatives, and who contribute to Wales’ culture and heritage.